Friday, July 6, 2012

The After Wife by Gigi Levangie Grazer

Book Synopsis: Gigi Levangie Grazer, the New York Times bestselling author of The Starter Wife, returns with a hilarious and spirited tale of love—both lost and found.

L.A. is no place for widows. This is what forty-four-year-old Hannah Bernal quickly discovers after the tragic death of her handsome and loving husband, John. Misery and red-rimmed eyes are little tolerated in the land of the beautiful. But life stumbles on: Hannah’s sweet three-year-old daughter, Ellie, needs to be dropped off at her overpriced preschool, while Hannah herself must get back to work in order to pay the bills on “Casa Sugar,” the charming Spanish-styled bungalow they call home.

Fortunately, Hannah has her “Grief Team” for emotional support: earth mother and fanatical animal lover Chloe, who finds a potential blog post in every moment; aspiring actress Aimee, who has her cosmetic surgeon on speed dial; and Jay, Hannah’s TV producing partner, who has a penchant for Mr. Wrong. But after a series of mishaps and bizarre occurrences, one of which finds Hannah in a posh Santa Monica jail cell, her friends start to fear for her sanity. To make matters worse, John left their financial affairs in a disastrous state. And when Hannah is dramatically fired from her latest producing gig, she finds herself in danger of losing her house, her daughter, and her mind.

One night, standing in her backyard under a majestic avocado tree, in the throes of grief, Hannah breaks down and asks, “Why?” The answer that comes back—Why not?—begins an astounding journey of discovery and transformation that leads Hannah to her own truly extraordinary life after death.

My Thoughts: I don't read much in the genre of Chick-lit, and after reading The After Wife, I am asking myself, "why not?" This book book was fantastic - a wonderful summer read - just what I needed!

The idea of of losing a husband should be so sad and depressing, however, the author presents this story in such a hilarious way, I found myself laughing throughout the whole book! Yeah, there were times I would tear up, but not for long! The author would follow up a sad situation with such a funny comment that I couldn't help but crack a smile! Just the nature of her writing style makes me want to read more from her!! Gigi Levangie Grazer is a master at her craft - with such a way with words, that I was hooked from page one! I found myself often thinking - WOW! - What a way to put that!!! I don't know that I have ever read a book that I have reacted in such a manner!

I loved all the characters! Hannah and Ellie felt like family. Hannah's friends - "The Grief Team": Jay, Chloe and Aimiee were so funny! Honestly, they made the whole story. But then again, so did the others that were presented along the way - especially the former resident of Casa Sugar!

This is one of those books that are so easily read in one sitting! I had to force myself to take breaks now and then, I got so wrapped up. I know this is a book that I will want to read again some day - and that is saying something, as I rarely ever do that. Thank you, Gigi Levangie Grazer for my great summer escape!